Foreign tourists enjoy kite flying, Punjab's music

Praise enthusiasm, hospitality of Lahore

LAHORE:

Following the revival of the Basant festival in Lahore, foreign tourists have shown keen interest in the celebrations, participating in kite flying and cultural activities across the city.

Foreign tourists and residents celebrated Basant on rooftops, at hotels and designated cultural venues.

A large number of foreign visitors witnessed the vibrant colours of Basant in the Walled City, around the Lahore Fort, near the Badshahi Mosque, as well as in Gulberg and Defence, where they joined local residents in kite flying.

David, a foreign national celebrating Basant at the ground of Lahore Cathedral Church, said this was his first experience of celebrating the festival in Pakistan. He said he had come with his family and described Basant as a peaceful and colourful festival that highlights Lahore's cultural identity.

Another foreign tourist, Maria, appreciated the kite flying, traditional food and music, saying that such festivals provide an excellent opportunity to understand local culture closely.

Some tourists said the enthusiasm, hospitality and the unique way of celebrating the festival had left a strong impression on them.

Foreign tourists also attended a Basant event at the historic Poonch House, where guests participated in kite flying and visited the Bhagat Singh Gallery.